Sun Safety

The Cape May County Department of Health advises you to take precautionary measures during extreme heat. It is important to always check the weather forecast to find out temperatures, humidity, and if there is a heat wave in your area. If an air conditioner is not accessible in your home, there are places you can visit to stay cool. Examples include:

Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sun glasses that protect against UVA and UVB light.

Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

Drink Fluids
During hot weather, increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink and don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol, or large amounts of sugar. These drinks can actually cause you to loose fluid throughout your body.

Wear Sunscreen
Always wear sunscreen that is labeled SPF 15+ (Sun Protection Factor) "broad spectrum" before going out in the sun. This sunscreen will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating. Do not try and stretch out a bottle of sunscreen-apply generously and make sure to check expiration dates.

Use a Buddy System
When traveling outdoors in the heat do not go alone. Going with a friend or relative is not only a safe way to approach the heat in case of any emergency, but also a great way to catch up on each others' lives!

Monitor Children & Elderly
Periodically check on any elderly neighbors and relatives to make sure they are staying cool. People taking medications, including diuretics, sedatives, and narcotics are vulnerable to the side effects of heat.

It is important to not overdress children. Make sure everyone around you has plenty of fluids accessible. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, even if the windows are open.

Heat-Related IllnessesHeat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to balance its temperature. The body temperature rises drastically and is not capable of cooling down. Common signs include:

Dizziness

Extremely high body temperature

Hot, dry skin

Nausea

Rapid pulse

If you see any of these signs, call for medical assistance immediately. If not treated right away, heat stroke can cause permanent disability or even death.

Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and low fluid intake/replacement. Signs of heat exhaustion include:

Dizziness

Headache

Heavy sweating

Muscle cramps

Paleness

Tiredness

Vomiting

Weakness

Once again, call for immediate assistance if you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms.